Hidden Gems of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi

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Advisor - Megan Daly
Curated By

Megan Daly

  • Adventure Travel

  • Beaches

  • Luxury Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Hidden Gems

  • Outdoor

  • Hiking

beach at sunset
Curator’s statement

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi is a stunning, diverse island with so many different parts of the island to experience. From black sand beaches to active volcanoes to rainforests, there's everything here. What I love about this island is the relaxed vibe and local gems combined with top-tier luxury resorts.

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Big Island, Hawaiʻi

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Things to do in Big Island, Hawaiʻi

quiet beach with clear blue water with a mountain in the distance

Polulu Valley — Make the trek to the end of the road for stunning views of the valley and steep cliffs leading to the ocean. A short hike down to the black sand beach but bring good shoes. Don’t forget to stop at the farmstead for a snack after and gorgeous views.

Manini Beach — A great destination if you’re spending the day driving around South Kona. Very remote park perfect for a picnic or afternoon nap.

Kiholo Bay — Visit Kiholo Bay to see the sea turtles and ancient fish ponds. Bring a swimsuit on your hike for a nice reward after making the 45 min walk from the road.

Hawi — One of my favorite destinations for a drive is the charming town of Hawi. An artist’s paradise, stop here for coffee and to walk around and enjoy the local shops and art galleries.

Waimea Farmers Market — Explore the upcountry at the farmers market (on Wednesdays and Sundays) in Waimea! I love stopping here for fresh produce, baked goods, and yummy locally made nut butters and jams.

Hapuna Beach — One of my favorite beaches on the island if not in the world. Make sure to get there early because it is popular!! A day at the beach isn’t complete without a stop for malasadas or shave ice at the stand on the highway.

Kua Bay — If you’re looking to ride the waves, Kua Bay is essentially a giant wave pool. Fun to either swim or watch the surfers.

Places to eat & drink in Big Island, Hawaiʻi

yellow tropical fruit and smoothie stand

Fresh Off the Grid — The most stunning location for a farmstead in the world perhaps? Stop here after a hike at Polulu Valley for a smoothie or the incredible poke nachos.

Shaka Tacoz — My favorite place for lunch when exploring South Kona. Make sure to get the tacos with crispy melted cheese.

Kawaiihae Marketplace — Top-tier poke and fish counter if you want to get local fish.

Umekes — Amazing poke and other seafood options if you find yourself in Kona.

Gypsea Gelato — With a few locations on the island, they make creative flavors perfect for an afternoon treat post beach.

Kohala Coffee Mill — A perfect coffee stop while exploring the town of Hawi.

Pau Pizza — We love stopping here after the farmers market for a slice of pizza and salad. Pro tip: if they have their homemade bread make sure to buy a loaf!

Waimea Butcher Stop — A must if you’re looking for meat, but their BBQ lunch is incredible. Their brisket sandwich and burgers are amazing.

Advisor - Megan Daly

Travel Advisor

Megan Daly

Get in touch with Megan

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Elizabeth Coffey's guide, Easy Going on Hawaiʻi's Big Island. This is part of our ongoing series on travel to the Big Island, and our longer series on travel to Hawai'i.